Finding hope and support during a time of crisis
Meet Peter
Mental health can change at any stage of life, and older people can sometimes need more intensive support to get through a period of crisis.
The Crisis Intervention Team for Older People provides short-term, specialist help for people aged 65 and over whose mental health has deteriorated significantly. The team works closely with other services to help people stay safe, stabilise their mental health and begin moving towards recovery.
For Peter, that support became vital when anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts began to make everyday life increasingly difficult.
Peter was referred to the Crisis Intervention Team for Older People (CITOP) by his Community Mental Health Team following a significant deterioration in his mental health.
Increasing anxiety and depression had led to worsening suicidal thoughts, and he had stopped taking part in many of the activities he would usually enjoy. Everyday life had become difficult to manage and he struggled to see a way forward.
The support
Support when it was needed most
Following his referral, Peter received daily support from members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT).
Reflecting on this time, he described the regular visits as a positive source of support during one of the most challenging periods of his life.
“He received daily visits from the MDT and he stated that those daily visits were very positive during a really hard time.”
Alongside support from CITOP, Peter was also referred to the Acute Community Service where he received intensive psychological support, which he found extremely beneficial.
Feeling reassured and understood
Throughout his time with the service, Peter felt encouraged and supported by staff.
He explained that team members helped him view situations more positively and provided reassurance when he needed it most.
“He explained that all of the staff help you to see things in a more optimistic light, and that they always do their best to support and encourage you.”
Knowing support was available around the clock brought a significant sense of comfort.
“He found that knowing he could call the team day or night and speak to someone supportive was very reassuring.”
The outcome
As support continued, Peter noticed significant improvements in both his mood and anxiety levels.
With the help of CITOP and the Acute Community Service, he was able to develop strategies to manage his mental health and begin looking towards the future with greater confidence.
Following a positive period of recovery, Peter was discharged back to his Community Mental Health Team, who continue to support him with maintaining and building upon the progress he has made.
Why it matters
Peter’s experience demonstrates how timely intervention, compassionate support and access to specialist services can help people navigate mental health crises and move towards recovery.
*Please note: Peter is not this person’s real name for privacy reasons.